Name
Chamberlain University
NR-586: Population Health and Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing Practice
Prof. Name
Date
Health outcomes within Monmouth County demonstrate both areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. The county excels in several domains, including low rates of teenage pregnancies, reduced levels of physical inactivity, and a comparatively low percentage of children living in poverty. In addition, educational attainment is a major strength, as Monmouth demonstrates high rates of high school completion and college enrollment. Accessibility to healthcare services is also strong, with a significant presence of primary care physicians and dentists.
Despite these positive indicators, two notable challenges remain. Adult smoking continues to affect the health status of residents, posing long-term risks for chronic diseases such as cardiovascular illnesses and cancer. Similarly, income inequality persists, influencing access to resources, housing stability, and overall well-being. These two areas highlight the need for targeted interventions to ensure equity in healthcare outcomes across the county.
Several underlying factors contribute to the areas requiring improvement within Monmouth County. Physical influences, such as the availability of safe and affordable housing, play a crucial role in shaping health behaviors and outcomes. Social determinants, including peer pressure, social networks, and community norms, may also drive negative behaviors such as smoking.
In addition, behavioral influences linked to family transitions—such as divorce, remarriage, or instability—can impact mental and physical health. These stressors may increase vulnerability to risky habits like tobacco use or decreased physical activity. Furthermore, minor illnesses and psychosocial stressors can exacerbate these behaviors. Addressing these determinants holistically is essential to improving long-term health outcomes (World Health Organization, 2017).
To better understand the status of Monmouth County, a comparison can be made with Essex and Middlesex Counties. This comparison reveals differences in critical indicators such as adult smoking, physical inactivity, high school completion, and child poverty rates.
Comparison of Health Indicators Across Counties
| Health Indicator | Monmouth County | Essex County | Middlesex County |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Smoking | 12% | 13% | 11% |
| Physical Inactivity | 19% | 28% | 22% |
| High School Completion | 94% | 87% | 90% |
| Children in Poverty | 7% | 20% | 9% |
From the table, Monmouth County demonstrates stronger outcomes in most categories, particularly in education and child poverty reduction. Essex County struggles the most, showing higher rates of physical inactivity and poverty. Middlesex County performs moderately, with slightly better smoking rates than Monmouth but still lagging in physical inactivity. Overall, Monmouth County ranks higher in health outcomes compared to the other two counties; however, each county still has areas that require focused attention.
The information gathered significantly influences the responsibilities of an advanced practice nurse (APN). First, understanding the prevalence of behaviors such as smoking and physical inactivity guides the development of tailored patient assessments and screenings. APNs can incorporate targeted questions into health histories to identify at-risk individuals early.
Second, health education becomes a central role. Educating patients about the risks of smoking, benefits of physical activity, and resources available for managing stress or income-related barriers can empower them to make informed decisions.
Third, advocacy is a key responsibility. APNs can serve as patient advocates by promoting equitable access to healthcare services, addressing gaps in community resources, and supporting initiatives aimed at reducing income inequality.
Finally, delivering holistic, patient-centered care ensures that each individual is viewed beyond their immediate symptoms. By considering social, behavioral, and environmental influences, APNs can foster comprehensive care plans that enhance overall well-being.
World Health Organization. (2017, February 3). Determinants of health. https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/determinants-of-health
